Rugged and exotic. Beautiful and strong. You could be describing Jan Barboglio or her wonderful creations. Both have the heart and soul of old Mexico. Jan was born into a ranching family in Coahuilla Mexico. Situated in north central Mexico it was the stomping grounds of Pancho Villa and Emiliano Zapata during the Mexican revolution.

For the first seven years of her life, Jan never left the ranch. The hacienda life, was literally bred into her bones. As a child she dug up old coins, bridles, caches of ammunition, horseshoes and pottery. The memories of this isolated, rugged, primitive beauty has been a major inspiration throughout her life. Jan was then educated in the United States, where she graduated from SMU, majoring in business and Spanish.

Then came the international exposure of her first job in Neiman Marcus. Jan went into a successful career designing clothes with her sister Cristina, always with the prevailing influence of Colonial Mexico. By the early 90′s she discovered her passion for iron. Forged by hand in Mexico and finished in the age-old process, each piece conjures the magic of another age. Combined with glass, silver, wood, leather and plaster, each piece is unique and completely recognizable as Jan’s. Refinement and simplicity cannot be taught, as they are nurtured in the spirit. Whether traveling around Europe or climbing Mt. Kilamanjaro, as a true child of Mexico, Jan returns every few months to her parents ranch – not for inspiration but to maintain her magical internal balance.

Karen Harlow carries pieces from the current Jan Barboglio line.  Stop by our store or give us a call at 760-674-4663 – we’re happy to answer any questions you may have!